ALEXANDER AYS LEOPARD
CENTRAL SCOTTISH T349 (GSU 831T)

This model is probably my most successful conversion and is a model which is long overdue from EFE. The Y-type was a popular choice and it is surprising that EFE have limited themselves to just 2 front panels and coach seating and trim (although that doesn't seem to stop them pretending they have all designs of front panel).

This model is of a bus that used to run past my front door as a child. The casting has been modified in the following ways: window pillars added, beading removed and replaced on the side panels using thin metal strips, rear luggage door removed, beading and new lights added, front panel modified to represent last type of panel with single headlights (a white metal item is available but looks a bit "hand made"). Bus seating added - seat backs produced originally from plastic card but more recently refitted with modified Mark Hughes' superb etched brass bus seats. New side indicators were fitted and wheel nuts added. The glazing is left over from Atlantean conversions and looks excellent for it. The windows have more recently been upgraded to correct hopper spec and the centre roof light removed. Along with these additions the interior has received a complete repaint and the wheels made to look dirty. A revised grill has also been painted on.

GSU 866T, the last manual Leyland Leopard for the SBG is in preservation and will hopefully be restored to original livery and condition. Rumours of T349 and T350 surviving in preservation have yet to be substantiated but this would be excellent news - they were for sale as a pair in 2003, still fitted with their Kelvin and KCB blinds! (I would have bought T349 had I not the previous week bought LA1443!)